Chrysler Group to hire 1,000 engineers, workers within the next 4 months

Within the next four months, Chrysler Group LLC will hire 1,000 engineers and other skilled workers as part of efforts to enhance its small and mid-sized car development, according to The Wall Street Journal. Very recently, General Motors Co. also announced plans to hire about 1,000 engineers to work on vehicle electrification efforts.

These plans were announced by GM CEO Dan Akerson at a Chevrolet Volt event in Detroit earlier this week. These reports of hiring are a contrast to the big job cuts that were imposed during the past few years at Chrysler. But things are looking up now. In fact, Chrysler’s US sales are higher by 17% this year to 910,357.

Chrysler is also undertaking a major new product campaign, with 16 new or restyled models in the works. The company is currently developing several models based on Fiat vehicles that will be introduced in the next several years.

Weeks ago, Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne was announcing its third-quarter financial results. He had mentioned that Chrysler plans to hire additional workers in the coming months to support product development, manufacturing and sales.

Lisa Wicker, Chrysler's recruiting chief, told the Journal that the company is looking for experienced and entry-level candidates.

Chrysler will directly employ 60% of the new hires while 40% will work through various contract agencies. Wicker also said that many of these new employees will be assigned to its Auburn Hills, Mich. headquarters. [via autonews - sub. required]